Temple-Inland Forest Products Corporation v. United States

PATRICK E. HIGGINBOTHAM, Circuit Judge:

This case turns on the construction of a 58-year-old deed under Texas law. In 1935, Temple-Inland’s predecessor sold land in East Texas to the United States, reserving the mineral rights. This reservation was to expire in 1985, subject to extension on limited areas around commercial production. Temple’s right to retain tracts that have become inactive since 1985 is now disputed. The district court granted summary judgment in favor of Temple. We disagree with the district court’s interpretation of the deed, and reverse.

The facts are undisputed. By…